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Lovers of art and design may want to grab some cheap flights to Helsinki this year as the Finnish capital takes on the role of World Design Capital for 2012.

The city will host a variety of design-themed events over the next 12 months, welcoming international visitors as well as being sure to attract a large number of design conscious Finns. One highlight of the year will be a chance to see a collection of films shot in Helsinki from the 1930s to the 1960s. The films will be shown at the Helsinki City Museum from 15 February, and the museum will also host an accompanying exhibition featuring costumes, historical items and photographs.

Finland’s largest airline Finnair will be involved with many of Helsinki’s activities during the year, and vice president of brand and marketing, Jarkko Konttinen, observed that the year’s events would give many visitors their first taste of Finnish design.

“We look forward to giving them a great first impression,” said Mr Konttinen. “Helsinki really is emerging as a nexus of creativity and cultural exchange, at the heart of a New Silk Road between East and West,” he added.

Torino in Itlay was the World Design Capital in 2008, and was followed by the South Korean city of Seoul in 2009. Cape Town is set to become World Design Capital in 2014.